How to Restore Your Android Device Without Data Loss

Step by step

1. 2 min

   Verify your Google One cloud backup

   Open the Settings app and navigate to System > Backup. Ensure 'Backup by Google One' is toggled on and verify that 'App data,' 'Photos & videos,' and 'SMS text messages' have been synced recently. This serves as your primary safety net for critical data.

   Note: Manually tap 'Back up now' to ensure your most recent changes are captured.
2. 3 min

   Clear the system cache partition

   Power off your device completely. Hold the Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously until the Fastboot menu appears, then use the volume keys to navigate to 'Recovery Mode' and press Power to select. When the 'No command' screen appears, hold Power and press Volume Up once, then select 'Wipe cache partition' to remove temporary system files that may be causing instability.

   Note: This process does not touch your personal files or installed applications.
3. 2 min

   Reset app preferences

   Navigate to Settings > Apps > See all apps. Tap the three-dot menu icon in the top right corner and select 'Reset app preferences.' This restores all disabled apps, notification restrictions, and default application settings without deleting your data.

   Note: You will need to re-grant permissions to apps as you open them after this reset.
4. 1 min

   Reset network settings

   If connectivity is the cause of your system issues, go to Settings > System > Reset options. Select 'Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.' Confirm the action to refresh all network configurations, VPN profiles, and paired Bluetooth devices.

   Note: You will need to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords after performing this reset.
5. 1 min

   Reboot and verify system integrity

   Restart your device normally. Once the system loads, navigate to Settings > System > System update to ensure your firmware is current. Verify that your data remains intact by checking the Files app and your primary messaging applications.